You can find a lot of information regarding car accident injury lawsuits online, but that doesn’t mean all of it is accurate. That’s why, if you’re actually considering a lawsuit, it’s so important you actually consult auto injury attorneys in person. But if you’re just doing some preliminary research, here are answers to five of the most common questions people ask auto injury attorneys to get you started:
- What Is Negligence, Exactly?
You’ve probably been told that in order to file a claim or lawsuit, you’ll need to prove the other driver’s negligence. What does that actually mean? Basically, you’ll need to show two things: that the driver had a duty to act a certain way, and that the driver breached that duty. So if a driver was speeding or talking on a cell phone when he or she crashed into you, that’s an example of breaching both specific laws and a general “duty of care” that all drivers have.
- When Will I Need to File a Lawsuit?
If you’re injured in an accident, your first course of action will generally be to file an insurance claim with the negligent driver’s insurance company. If you’re offered a settlement that meets your financial needs, you can simply take it and move on. If you can’t agree on a settlement, however, that’s when it’s time to get a lawyer involved and possibly file a lawsuit.
- How Long Do I Have to Decide?
It’s important to keep in mind that personal injury lawsuits are governed by something called “statutes of limitation.” These set a maximum amount of time that can pass between the incident and the filing of a lawsuit. They vary from place to place, so you’ll want to consult your lawyer about your location’s statutes.
- How Much Compensation Will I Get?
There’s no standard by which car accident settlements are valued, really. Your target, of course, should be to recover all the money you need to cover your medical bills, lost wages and associated costs. You may also be able to get a little extra compensation for pain and suffering, though that’s by no means guaranteed.
- Do I Really Need a Lawyer?
Some people wonder if they really need to hire an auto injury attorney to represent them. While it’s not required by law, it’s definitely a good idea. Keep in mind that insurance companies will have whole teams of high-paid lawyers on their side, and their goal will be to keep your settlement as low as possible. That’s why it’s so important to have an experienced lawyer on your side.
What other questions would you like to ask auto accident injury attorneys? Join the discussion in the comments.
